On the offensive: Ohio State has a devastating 1-2 punch in quarterback Braxton Miller and 242-pound bulldozer Carlos Hyde. They have combined to rush for 2,181 yards. Michigan State tailback Jeremy Langford has seven straight 100-yard games.

Getting defensive: Michigan gained 603 yards on Ohio State, more than the Wolverines' total against Michigan State, Nebraska and Iowa combined. Michigan State's Shilique Calhoun (131/2 tackles for loss) was named the Big Ten's defensive lineman of the year.

The number: 0. Rose Bowl appearances for Michigan State since 1988. Even with a loss, the Spartans likely will go this season.

The talk: Mark Dantonio, not Urban Meyer, was named Big Ten coach of the year. The Spartans were an offensive wreck early in the season.

Teddy Greenstein's pick: Michigan State has been underestimated all season. Not anymore. MSU 27-24.